Reflections on the 2026 ANA Membership Assembly
MY FIRST American Nurses Association (ANA) Membership Assembly experience occurred in 1974, when the House of Delegates convened as part of the ANA Convention in San Francisco. Representing the Louisiana Student Nurses Association, I arrived eager to observe the profession’s leaders in action. I left with something far more enduring—a profound appreciation for the ability of nurses to shape their own future through collective leadership and professional engagement. My lifelong commitment to ANA and to advancing the nursing profession began at that meeting.
More than 5 decades later, ANA Membership Assembly, held June 26–27, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C., reaffirmed why this gathering remains one of the profession’s most important forums. Bringing together representatives from constituent state nurses associations, the Individual Member Division, and organizational affiliates, Membership Assembly once again demonstrated that nursing’s collective voice is strongest when informed by thoughtful dialogue, respectful debate, and a shared commitment to advancing the profession.
At a time when healthcare faces unprecedented complexity—from persistent workforce shortages and escalating patient acuity, to rapid technological innovation and evolving models of care—Membership Assembly provided an essential forum for nurses to shape the future of their profession. Delegates considered issues extending well beyond organizational governance. Their deliberations reflected nursing’s responsibility to influence policy, strengthen professional standards, and advocate for the health of individuals, communities, and the nation.
Membership Assembly exemplifies one of ANA’s greatest strengths: its democratic process. Delegates arrived representing diverse practice settings, geographic regions, specialties, and lived experiences. Although perspectives sometimes differed, the commitment to finding common ground underscored the profession’s shared purpose. Constructive disagreement isn’t a weakness of professional organizations; rather, it’s evidence of engaged leadership and healthy governance. Through open discussion and informed voting, members reaffirmed that the future of nursing is determined not by a select few but by the profession itself.
Equally important was the opportunity for emerging and experienced nurse leaders to connect, mentor one another, and build relationships that extend far beyond the 2-day meeting. Informal conversations frequently prove as influential as formal proceedings, fostering collaboration across states and specialties while generating innovative approaches to common challenges. These relationships strengthen ANA’s capacity to respond to emerging issues with agility and unity.
For me, the journey from a student delegate in 1974 to witnessing Membership Assembly in 2026 has reinforced a simple truth: Membership is more than a credential. It’s a commitment. Every policy position, advocacy initiative, and professional standard begins with nurses willing to engage, contribute, and lead. The decisions made in Washington will shape practice environments, education, regulation, and patient care for years to come.
This year’s Membership Assembly reaffirmed that nursing’s greatest resource is its collective expertise. When nurses come together with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to service, they strengthen not only their profession but also the healthcare system and the communities they serve. More than 50 years after my first House of Delegates, I remain convinced that there’s no more powerful force for advancing nursing than nurses who choose to participate, lead, and serve together.
Become a member, participate, be involved. It’s your future. Make a commitment to it.
Lillee Gelinas, DNP, RN, CPPS, FAAN
Editor-in-Chief
American Nurse Journal. 2026; 21(8). Doi: 10.51256/ANJ082604
